Welcome to the 2019/2020 season!
 
As many would already know, our long time dedicated Brisbane Etchells Fleet Captain Noel ‘Patto’ Paterson and partner-in-crime Treasurer David ‘Heals/Mr BBQ’ Healey are handing over the keys to myself and able bodied Treasurer Chris Nezmah, with Laurie Wood continuing as Fleet Secretary and Jenny Cooper assisting.
 
I would like to thank Patto and Heals for their incredible contribution to the Fleet both locally and the Etchells Class nationally and internationally over many years. They leave the Brisbane Fleet management in fantastic shape and we look forward to continuing the traditions they have established. (Both Patto and Heals assure me that they are not going anywhere and are intent on enjoying flogging BGR on the race course each week)
 
We are looking forward to the coming season (albeit more relaxed than the last) with new initiatives to be announced in the next few weeks as we warm up to the kick off of club racing later this month. We are just finalising a few dates but all be in place in time for the season opening. We welcome new ideas (and new members) to learn more about how we can continue to grow and enjoy our fleet, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at any time with your thoughts and feedback.
 
To welcome everyone to the new season we will host a breakfast on RQYS’s 135th Opening Day on Saturday Aug 31st. Come and join us at the Etchells hardstand for breakfast @ 08.30 to kick off this cracking season! The egg & bacon rolls washed down with a touch rum & milk are not to be missed.

See you on the 31st

Jason Hawkins
Fleet Captain